Horoscope: Dec. 23

Aries (March 21-April 19): You will be as effective as you are specific. This is true in the area of communication. Use the most exact word you know to describe what you want.

Taurus (April 20-May 20): Keep your focus outward, not inward. Self-analysis is the enemy of creativity, and it doesn't do anything for your conversational abilities. Focus on listening intently to what's going on.

Gemini (May 21-June 21): A momentary setback will yield a happy outcome that wouldn't have come about otherwise. What's more, difficult times create an opportunity for your friends and family to show you just how much you are loved.

Cancer (June 22-July 22): You are quite psychic. It's true. However, do refrain from reading minds today. You'll be far too influenced by your own doubts, fears and expectations.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22): You will move at a fast pace both literally and figuratively. This creates excitement around you. You'll be interesting to others.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): There is no need to impress anyone with lavish gifts or displays of your talent. Convey your enthusiasm and interest to others.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23): There will be so many things to take part in for your own enjoyment that you'll feel like life is a custom fit. Sure, there are a few bad things mixed in, but they just make the good stuff stand out even more.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 21): Checking out a lead on a new job feels like cheating on your current boss, but it's not. This is just business. It's in everyone's best interest that you find the job that's right for you.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The intensity of your restlessness rises and falls, but it's always there, waiting to take you somewhere. There's a reason the feeling is particularly strong right now, so if you can get out of town, do it.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You want to get to know someone but may not be sure how you should go about it. You won't have to invent a reason to strike up a conversation. Key off something that's in your surroundings.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): If you wonder why you get more than your share of social action today, it's because talking to you seems like a low-risk move.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): You're in a brave mood. Go ahead -- act now. Commit yourself. Plunk down the money. Nothing will be set in stone.

Today's birthday (Dec. 23): Your intelligent way of handling yourself and others will attract powerful people. You'll be asked to do important jobs. Make sure to set your price well from the start, as you're likely to continue at that mark. February brings a promotion. You'll pledge your love in August. Family events promote closeness and healing. Gemini and Virgo people adore you. Lucky numbers are 1, 14, 39, 21 and 17.

Holiday Mathis writes her column for Creators Syndicate Inc. The horoscope should be read for entertainment. Previous forecasts are at latimes.com/horoscope.